Why LeBron James could earn an honorary degree from Ohio State

LeBron James has earned plenty of titles throughout his 22-year NBA career. The title of “Dr.” could be next.

Tuesday, The Ohio State University’s Board of Trustees approved the awarding of an honorary doctorate to the 21-time All-Star. The board’s approval is the first step toward James receiving the degree, with a formal vote to come Wednesday.

Within the board’s meeting notes, James, a native of Ohio, is described as “one of the most influential figures in the world” thanks to his impact in the worlds of sports, business, and philanthropy.

📲 Follow The Sporting News on WhatsApp

Here is everything to know about the next honor James could add to his resume.

NBA PLAYOFFS HQ: Live NBA scores | NBA playoff schedule | NBA playoff bracket

LeBron James Ohio State degree

Ohio State will vote on James receiving an honorary Doctor of Public Service degree.

Regarding the degree, the school said James has “redefined philanthropy to create a revolutionary model for community building in his hometown of Akron.” The vote will come on Wednesday, May 21.

“Launched before he stepped foot in the NBA in 2004, the LeBron James Family Foundation invests its time, resources and passion into creating generational change for kids and families that has yielded a visible footprint and viable model for the world on what it means to build community from the ground up,” the university added in its meeting notes.

MORE: What LeBron James has said about his NBA future in 2025-26

What is an honorary doctorate?

An honorary doctorate is a titular degree that does not come with any formal academic qualification.

These degrees are conferred to honor the individuals’ impact on society or in a particular field. In James’ case, the degree would be for his efforts in his local communities.

MORE: Breaking down LeBron James’ case to be the NBA’s GOAT

Where did LeBron James go to college?

James did not attend college. He entered the NBA in 2003, months after graduating from St. Vincent-St. Mary High School.

Despite not attending college, James has been a lifelong supporter of Ohio State and maintains that he would have suited up for the Buckeyes had he played basketball collegiately.

Where is LeBron James from?

James is from Akron, Ohio.

He was born and raised in the Rubber City and remains active in the Akron community. In 2018, James’ family foundation opened the I Promise School, which is targeted at at-risk children in Grades 1 through 8 in Akron.

James’ foundation also oversaw the opening of House Three Thirty. A play off of Akron’s 330 area code, House Three Thirty is a community space that brought jobs to the city. Among House Three Thirty’s attractions is LeBron James’ Home Court, a museum built inside James’ childhood home.